Mountain Biking

The public lands adjacent to Montrose have numerous mountain bike routes in three general geographic areas:

Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area

The GGNCA is located northeast of Montrose and encompasses the area commonly referred to as the Adobes, as well as rocky pinyon and juniper uplands, and, of course, the deep wilderness canyon of the Gunnison Gorge itself.

Numerous mountain biking opportunities are available along the entire western flank of the NCA. For those seeking a technically challenging singletrack ride, Sidewinder Trail runs 20 miles from the North Sidewinder Trailhead south to Eagle Valley Trail near the Peach Valley staging area. Another access point near the end of the Bostwick Park Road is Kurt’s Trail. Check out BLM’s Flat Top-Peach Valley Trail Map for more detailed information.

The NCA is interlaced with many trails, and some are unsuitable for mountain biking – mostly because they are too steep. The best seasons to ride these trails are spring and fall. Avoid these trails after heavy rain.

Dry Creek Area

These trails are located in the canyon/mesa country west of Montrose. The main trailhead for the area is the Tabeguache Trailhead at the north end of Shavano Valley Road. Access to riding is also possible from Transfer Road. Spring and fall riding season.

Uncompahgre Plateau

These trails are located in the high country southwest of Montrose. Most of these trails are accessible from the Divide Road by way of Dave Wood Road and Highway 90. Summer and early fall riding season. Popular routes include Aspen Trail, Buck Trail, and the Buzzard Gulch Trail System.

Papa Wheelie's Bicycles

Top Four Rides in Montrose

Check out the top four rides recommended by our local mountain biking enthusiasts:

Sidewinder Trail

This is the area’s premier trail, dwarfing all but the mighty Tabeguache Trail in scale. Be prepared for tough riding in a remote setting. Distance: 20+ miles of excellent singletrack! Loops and out-and-backs between 8 miles and 40 miles are possible. Elevation: 5300 – 6000 feet
Rating: Advanced to ExpertTime: 2 to 8 hours

Buck/Dry Creek Trail

Follow a mix of narrow singletrack and old roads converted to singletrack winding in and out of aspen groves, dark timber, and clearings. At its most northern point the trail climbs to “The Knob” for an outstanding view. Distance: 10 milesElevation: 8900 – 9700 feetRating: IntermediateTime: 2 hours

Aspen Loop

This is a nice short ride through beautiful aspen groves. Stop to enjoy an overlook of Lone Cone and the western San Juan Mountains. Distance: 6+ milesElevation: 9,500 – 9700 feetRating: IntermediateTime: 1-2 hours